Originally Posted by
big john
2 guys I know (besides Biker395) did it this year. He did mention the crashes on the STP including one in the first mile which ended one guy's ride, then another something like 30 miles in where a guy made a bonehead move and 2 went down with my friend lucky to not be involved.
This is why I avoid STP after riding in twice (1981, 2010).
The ride is known for the many crashes especially at the beginning when everyone is bunched together like the migration of the Wildebeests.
I swore after the 1st one, I'd never ride it again but I did years later as a one day fixed gear training ride for RAMROD (also fixed) later in July 2010.
A friend and I avoided the crazy and dangerous start by beginning in Auburn 30 miles down the road.
It was like an entirely different ride and actually quite pleasant.
We stayed ahead of the pack most of the day, only the faster riders starting to pass us near 1/2 way point in Centralia.
No waiting in line at any of the rest stops!
Not a double century this way (170 miles) but it was great training for the 156 mile RAMROD.
